Luke Brown - in profile

"It has been a lot better than I thought it would. It’s a great way to get into the NHS and all the managers have been really supportive."

Luke Brown, 18, works in Health Records

Can you tell us a bit about your role?

I work in the Health Records department and I started off in scanning. It’s quite a fast-paced environment. I’ve got to meet deadlines on a daily basis. I sought patient case notes and scan them on to the system.

How did you become an apprentice at the Countess?

I just applied online and I was looking on NHS Jobs. And then since starting this apprenticeship I also work on A&E on the bank on the reception and that’s opened up a lot of doors. I work there weekly.

How does that balance out with your main role?

Some days can be long but it’s about getting to know different areas and different people.

What made you want to work for the NHS?

My mum works as a nurse here and my sister is a pharmacist. They recommended this because they were looking out for my future. At college I did travel and tourism because I didn’t know what to do but I liked the idea of travelling. Since then a lot has changed and I’m happier working in a place like this. It's been great since I joined in August last year.

What were you hoping to get from the apprenticeship at the Countess when you first started?

I wanted to gain knowledge and experience and hopefully progress into a longer ladder on to a more senior job.

What’s it been like?

It has been a lot better than I thought it would. It’s a great way to get into the NHS and all the managers have been really supportive.

What would you say to someone thinking about becoming an apprentice at the Countess?

Definitely look into it and it is an easy way to get in and once you’re here there are opportunities to get on the bank so I’ve now got a regular way of getting work even if the apprenticeship does finish.

What’s it like working on the reception in A&E?

It depends, obviously you have all sorts of people, and it’s good it gives you confidence and experiences. You have people from all sorts of ages, cultures, backgrounds and beliefs who all obviously don't want to be here. You’ve just got to cater to and by sympathetic to all their needs.